The headache may also include psychiatric, behavioral, or social factors.

Risk Factors

Your chance of a getting a post-traumatic headache is increased if you have had a history of head injuries.

Symptoms

A post-traumatic headache may occur right after the injury or as the injury is healing. Symptoms may include:

Head pain—symptoms depend on the cause of the headache

Nausea or vomiting

Light and sound sensitivity

Visual problems such as seeing spots or bright lights

Pain that occurs at the end of the day

Pain that starts in the neck, shoulders, and back of the head

Pain with neck movement

Lightheadedness

Difficulty sleeping

Problems concentrating

Mood and personality changes

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries. A physical exam will be done. The diagnosis is based on the exam and history. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the brain and nervous system if the headache persists, there are changes on the exam, or it is severe.

You will also be asked about the frequency and pattern of your headaches. To help provide answers, you may consider keeping a diary of:

When your headaches start and end

What you were doing at the time

What you tried to relieve the pain

Any other symptoms you had with your headache

Images may be taken of your brain, head, and neck to look for signs of injury. This can be done with:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.